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[SPORTS] · Australia, Switzerland · 4 sources

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Heath Ryan suspended 18 months for horse abuse

Heath Ryan horse abuse Federation Equestre Internationale equestrian suspension animal welfare

Australian Olympian Heath Ryan has been suspended from equestrian competition for 18 months by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI). The decision follows a year-long investigation into animal abuse.

The investigation was prompted by leaked video footage showing Ryan whipping a six-year-old stallion at least 41 times. The FEI tribunal concluded that Ryan’s actions constituted horse abuse and brought the sport into disrepute. The 18-month suspension includes the provisional ban Ryan has already served, meaning he is ineligible to compete until December.

In addition to the suspension, Ryan was fined 3,000 Swiss francs and ordered to pay an additional 3,000 Swiss francs toward the FEI’s legal costs.

Ryan, a 68-year-old former dressage rider and Olympic assistant coach, has denied the allegations of abuse. He argued that the horse was untrainable and that his actions were intended to prevent the animal from being sent to a knackery. Ryan also initiated legal proceedings against Equestrian Australia in the NSW Supreme Court in July to clear his name, claiming the footage was released by a disgruntled former employee.

Entities

Boyd Martin · Equestrian Australia · Fédération Equestre Internationale · Heath Ryan · Wayne Roycroft

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

Sources

Aussie Olympian hit with fresh ban after serious conduct breach [7news.com.au]
Heath Ryan suspension: Australian Olympian banned for 18 months following horse abuse investigation [www.theage.com.au]
Heath Ryan suspension: Australian Olympian banned for 18 months following horse abuse investigation [www.brisbanetimes.com.au]
Heath Ryan suspension: Australian Olympian banned for 18 months following horse abuse investigation [www.smh.com.au]